Disabled drivers are getting a helping hand from Nassau police this holiday season as the force cracks down on cars parked illegally in handicapped spots.

Nassau Highway Patrol Sgt. Joe Magrane says he easily issues 10 tickets in one four-hour period during the holidays. According to Magrane, offenders can get quite creative in their attempts to park illegally. The sergeant says cars illegally parked in handicapped spaces often have photocopied, doctored or completely fake permits. The standard ticket amounts to a total of $290.

About 35,000 handicapped stickers are in circulation. The Nassau County Office for the Physically Challenged receives 35 to 40 applications daily.